Jazz
Oscar Celestin - Trumpet, Vocals
Alphonse Picou - Clarinet
Bill Matthews - Trombone
Christopher "Black Happy" Goldston - Drums, Vocals
Octave Crosby - Piano, Vocals
Richard Alexis - String Bass, Vocals
* Chris Strachwitz - Liner Notes, Producer
* Wayne Pope - Artwork
Oscar "Papa" Celestin was at the height of his popularity during the last few years of his life. Although never a major trumpeter, Celestin was an important bandleader in New Orleans, and during the early 1950s, his group included the legendary clarinetist Alphonse Picou, who here can be heard playing his famous solo on "High Society." Celestin's set of radio broadcasts, which had been available only in piecemeal fashion previously, is fully reissued on the well-conceived Arhoolie CD. Although the M.C.'s announcements are a bit condescending, the spirited music (which also features trombonist Bill Mathews, pianist Octave Crosby, bassist Ricard Alexis and drummer Christopher Goldston, plus vocals from several of the band members) is filled with the joy of classic New Orleans jazz.
--- Scott Yanow, All Music Guide |
